What is Government Commercial Agency?

Government Commercial Agency (GCA) is an enhanced executive agency that will come into operation from 1 April 2026. 

GCA brings together commercial expertise from several Cabinet Office’s Central Commercial Teams and Crown Commercial Service into a single, integrated agency – achieving better value for taxpayers and supporting the Government’s missions.

By uniting the strengths of both organisations, GCA creates a stronger, more joined-up commercial function for government and the public sector.

Sam Ulyatt leads the agency as Chief Executive and Accounting Officer, working closely with Andrew Forzani, the Government Chief Commercial Officer.

Why is this change happening?

This change is in response to the Cabinet Office Futures Programme and Arms Length Body Review. The aim is to create a commercial function that:

  • brings together the strengths of both teams
  • improves efficiency
  • provides better value for the nation

What this means for you

What buyers need to know

Will my relationship with Crown Commercial Service and Government Commercial Function colleagues change?

No, for the time being there will be no change to your existing relationships:

  • our points of contact and those providing you with regular support will stay the same
  • any future changes to the services and how you should engage with GCA will be clearly communicated to you.

Will the services we access from the agency change? 

No, the services you currently use will stay the same. 

GCA aims to improve services by combining knowledge and expertise to provide you with greater value.

How will the change to Government Commercial Agency benefit me?

The change to GCA aims to provide you with greater value and efficiency. Benefits include:

  • easier access to simpler procurement solutions and more efficient decision making
  • improved collaboration which will help us to better understand your needs and build long-term partnerships
  • more opportunities and a greater ability to shape markets through aggregate spending
  • clearer communication and consistent standards across procurement, with one point of accountability

What will happen to my existing Crown Commercial Service procurements, contracts or call-off agreements? 

For now, everything stays the same:

  • the legality of any existing Crown Commercial Service (CCS) agreement or framework will not change
  • your existing contracts and any call offs remain valid and will continue in line with the terms they were awarded under

Do you expect any disruption to ongoing procurements or projects during the transition?

No, we do not expect any disruption to ongoing procurements or projects.

The intention is to provide continuity and improvement.

How will GCA ensure consistent quality of service across the integrated teams?

Government Commercial Agency will provide consistent quality through a clear leadership structure. Sam Ulyatt will be the Chief Executive and Accounting Officer for GCA. Sam will work closely with Andrew Forzani, the Government Chief Commercial Officer.

This new operating model will provide:

  • one clear line of accountability across commercial procurement and policy
  • better alignment and closer collaboration across all teams
  • teams empowered with the ability and resources they need to work effectively

For our customers (buyers and suppliers) this will mean:

  • clearer communication
  • consistent standards across procurement
  • better support throughout the commercial process

GCA will bring together the strengths of both Crown Commercial Service (CCS) and Government Commercial Function (GCF). Together GCA will build a stronger, unified organisation capable of meeting future government challenges.

What suppliers need to know

What will happen to my existing Crown Commercial Service procurements, contracts or call-off agreements?

For now, everything stays the same:

  • the legality of any existing Crown Commercial Service (CCS) agreement or framework will not change
  • your existing contracts and any call offs remain valid and will continue in line with the terms they were awarded under

Will there be any changes to how payment is processed or to invoicing procedures?

No, there will be no changes to how payment is processed. Our bank account name will change to GCA but the account number and sort code will remain the same.

We will be in touch nearer the time to confirm any email address changes for invoicing.

Will the supplier relationship management teams I currently work with stay the same?

Yes, for the time being there will be no change to your existing relationships:

  • your points of contact and those providing you with regular support will stay the same
  • any future changes to the services and how you should engage with GCA will be clearly communicated to you

How will GCA ensure consistent quality of service and engagement from their integrated teams?

Government Commercial Agency will provide consistent quality through a clear leadership structure. Sam Ulyatt will be the Chief Executive and Accounting Officer for GCA. Sam will work closely with Andrew Forzani, the Government Chief Commercial Officer.

This new operating model will provide:

  • one clear line of accountability across commercial procurement and policy
  • better alignment and closer collaboration across all teams
  • teams empowered with the ability and resources they need to work effectively

For our customers (buyers and suppliers) this will mean:

  • clearer communication
  • consistent standards across procurement
  • better support throughout the commercial process

GCA will bring together the strengths of both Crown Commercial Service (CCS) and Government Commercial Function (GCF). Together GCA will build a stronger, unified organisation capable of meeting future government challenges.

What benefits will the GCA bring in terms of market access and opportunity for suppliers, particularly SMEs?

Government Commercial Agency will provide significant benefits to suppliers of all sizes to access and work with government. Here’s how:

Greater market access:

  • enhanced capability to shape markets and aggregate spending more effectively
  • more opportunities for businesses of all sizes
  • specific focus on ensuring SMEs and voluntary sector organisations can access government contracts

Simpler, faster processes:

  • simpler procurement processes and clearer routes to market
  • more efficient decision-making with less bureaucracy

Focus on innovation and growth:

  • GCA will align its work with the government’s Plan for Change and will actively seek suppliers who can help provide national priorities
  • provide opportunities for businesses that can support innovation and stimulate economic growth

Learn more about us

As Government Commercial Agency (GCA), we will improve how the public sector buys everything from school laptops to emergency vehicles, creating greater value for the nation.

  • Introducing Government Commercial Agency

    On 1 April 2026, Crown Commercial Service and several Cabinet Office Central Commercial teams (operating under the Government Commercial Function) will join to form Government Commercial Agency.

    Read our article introducing Government Commercial Agency.

  • How to buy

    With over 100 commercial agreements, we can help you get better value from products and services. Learn about our buying routes and what you can buy.

    Learn how to buy.

  • How to supply

    The UK public sector spends billions every year on products and services. Learn how your organisation can benefit from becoming a supplier.

    Learn how to supply.